It’s the news every Angels fan has been patiently waiting for and now Tonbridge Angels is delighted to reveal that Ethan Sutcliffe has signed a permanent deal with the club.
The popular centre half – who seems to have an enduring love affair with Angels – is a vital component in Alan Dunne’s plans.
Last season Sutcliffe made 31 appearances in all competitions, chipping in with a very useful five goals, including some late match-winners. In three previous loan spells with Angels, he has made 93 appearances in total, scoring 11 goals.
It took some tough negotiations to clinch Sutcliffe’s signature but now pen has been put to paper and the deal is sealed.
As soon as the last campaign was over – one in which Sutcliffe won the Supporters’ Player of the Year Award – Angels Chair Sophie Purves and Alan Dunne set to work to get their man.
Higher level clubs were keen to lure the ex-Wimbledon stopper but it seems home is where the heart is and this is the fourth time Sutcliffe has come to Angels, but the first time on a permanent basis.
Sutcliffe told Angels Media: “I did have some strong interest from a couple of other clubs in higher leagues but they didn’t feel right.
“Alan and Sophie kept in constant touch with me and to be so sought after is obviously a special feeling and I have a special relationship with the fans here.”
“It’s a relief to have everything sorted and not have anything looming over me and now I’m looking forward to getting stuck in to pre-season.”
Alan Dunne said: “We’ve been working tirelessly on this deal. A shout out to Ethan’s agent, Uben Gray, who has put his trust in me and the club to continue to develop Ethan. Personally I’ve seen Ethan grow both as a player and a person. He’s added goals to his game but there’s more to come from him. Ethan is ambitious and I think he has all the attributes to go and play at a higher level.
“Being defenders ourselves, myself and Tony Craig know what’s required and we feel we can bring him on even more.
“He did have other options but he chose us. It’s a huge signing for the club and I’m delighted.”
